Property & Places: The European city of culture, Liverpool

By Megan Sawh

Over the last two years, many of us have chosen (or indeed been forced) to stay closer to home for our holidays. And despite the lifting of Covid-related travel restrictions, UK holiday companies are continuing to report a demand for summer staycations. This comes as no surprise with overseas travel distruption prompting holiday makers to avoid the airport, along with the cost of living crisis.

With tons of hidden gems to explore across the country, I also jumped on the staycation bandwagon. As a ‘southerner’ myself, I’d explored a lot of the south coast but had never ventured any further north than King’s Lynn in Norfolk (I know, it’s embarrassing!). So, we decided to book a weekend away in Liverpool; the European city of culture.

While many associate the city with football-mad Scousers, it in fact has an exciting and rich cultural heritage. Famed for its impressive arts and culture background – from Albert Dock to the Cavern Club - the city is home to more museums and galleries than any other UK city outside of the capital. Once a famous docking port, Albert Dock is now a popular district packed with galleries, museums, retail outlets, residential apartments and offices, as well as a number of vibrant bars and restaurants.

Most notably as a global claim to fame, Liverpool is where The Beatles were founded. The Cavern Club was the birth place of the iconic band and remains a nightclub for locals and visitors to experience, with new and upcoming artists playing from 11am through to 1am. It also saw the likes of Queen and Elton John perform there many years ago – a truly iconic music destination and a must if you’re visiting Liverpool!

Having long been the neglected city in the north west, in 2004, Liverpool experienced a striking amount of regeneration, and four years later hosted the European Capital of Culture – a memorable changing point for the city. In the years since, it has become an increasingly sought-after destination to visit and live thanks to its plethora of activities and attractions, from Liverpool One, Mersey Ferries, Everyman, Anfield Stadium tours and of course, the 74 musuems and art galleries to pick from.

It’s a well known fact that Scousers are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people in the country, something I can vouch for. If you’re looking for your next staycation spot, I’d definitely recommend heading up north to this often overlooked city.